Old Testament
1 Chronicles 23:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we learn about the organization of the Levite families during the time of King David.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Jahath was the leader and Zizah was second. Jeush and Beriah didn't have many sons, so they were counted together as one family clan.
And Jahath was the chief, and Zizah the second: but Jeush and Beriah had not many sons; therefore they were in one reckoning, according to their father’s house.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the organization of the Levite families during the time of King David. Jahath is identified as the leader, with Zizah as his second-in-command. Jeush and Beriah are mentioned together because they had few sons, which meant they were combined into one family group. This reflects the importance of leadership and structure within the community. The Levites had specific roles in the temple, and their organization was crucial for maintaining order in worship. By counting Jeush and Beriah as one clan, it shows that even smaller families had a place in the larger community. This passage highlights how every family, regardless of size, contributes to the whole. It reminds us that unity and cooperation are essential, even when resources or numbers are limited. Each person's role is valuable, and together they form a stronger community. This principle can be applied to our lives today, where collaboration and support among individuals can lead to greater achievements.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 23:11 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your community, regardless of your size or resources. Every individual has a role to play, and together, we can achieve more. Embrace collaboration and support those around you to strengthen your connections and impact. Remember, every effort counts in building a better community for all.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 23:11 mean?
1 Chronicles 23:11 describes the leadership structure among the Levite families, highlighting Jahath as the leader and Zizah as his second. It also notes that Jeush and Beriah were combined into one clan due to their few sons, emphasizing the importance of organization and unity in the community.
What is the significance of Jahath and Zizah in 1 Chronicles 23:11?
Jahath and Zizah represent leadership within the Levite families, with Jahath being the chief and Zizah his second-in-command. Their roles are crucial for maintaining order and structure in the worship practices of the community.
Why were Jeush and Beriah counted as one family in 1 Chronicles 23:11?
Jeush and Beriah were counted as one family because they had few sons, which meant they did not form a large enough clan on their own. This reflects how even smaller families were included in the larger community structure.
What does 1 Chronicles 23:11 teach about community?
This verse teaches that every family, regardless of size, has a role in the community. It highlights the importance of unity and cooperation, showing that smaller groups can still contribute meaningfully to the whole.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Genealogies (Chs 1–9)
The record begins with the line from Adam to Noah and his sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The descendants of Japheth are listed, followed by the descendants of Ham, which include Nimrod, a mighty one in the earth, and the ancestors of the Philistines. The line of Shem is traced down to Abram, who is Abraham. The sons of Abraham—Ishmael and Isaac—are named, along with the sons of Abraham’s concubine Keturah. The generations of Ishmael are listed, followed by the descendants of Isaac’s son Esau, including the dukes and early kings of Edom.
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